Reports that United States clothing company Frederick Atkins Inc. is planning to shut down its business operations. Number of years in the clothing business; Reason behind the company's decision to shut down; Estimated number of employees to be affected by the company's move.

Reports on the finalization of an agreement between New York-based Frederick Atkins department store and Dallas-based Focus Networks. Broadcasting of information to member retailers via a satellite video system called The Atkins Network; Advantages of satellite systems; Previous transactions.

Reports that Associated Merchandising Corp. and Frederick Atkins Inc. are planning to combine their businesses into a $1 billion-plus purchasing group. Completion of the final agreement by the first week of October 1996.